Shipping your ThinkPad: SSD, backups and packaging

Removing SVP or CBA does not require access to your user data. Our service can, however, change security settings and firmware data; a BIOS reset may also be necessary. Back up your data before shipping and keep any required recovery keys available.

Keep storage with you where possible

We do not need an SSD and prefer devices without storage. Remove the SSD only if it can be done safely and your IT policy allows it. If safe removal is not possible, discuss shipping with us. A device without an SSD can still be assessed for the agreed firmware work.

Check your model's Lenovo manual to see whether the drive is described as a customer-replaceable component. Form factor, battery isolation, mounting and covers vary by model, so there is no universal removal procedure. Use a qualified technician if the requirements are unclear.

Removable SSD covers, SSD heatsinks or copper plates can also stay with you if they clearly belong to the removed drive. Leave other components installed.

Prepare the notebook for service

• If the notebook is already open, you do not need to screw the bottom cover back on for us. Refit and secure it for transport. Pack removed screws separately so they cannot move around inside the device.
• For complete notebooks, we need the battery. Leave the other components fitted as usual, especially the cooling system for the processor and graphics.
• Please do not send the power adapter. For detached boards, we agree any required test components beforehand.

Prepare backup and recovery

Back up the data you need and check that you can access your recovery information. For company equipment, the responsible IT team should handle this. A backup and a recovery key serve different purposes.

Microsoft explains that hardware, firmware or software changes can trigger BitLocker recovery. You may therefore need a key after reinstalling your SSD. A BIOS unlock is not a BitLocker unlock or data recovery. Recovery keys, Windows passwords and certificate private keys stay with you.

Where needed for the order, we may update and reset the UEFI / BIOS. Unchanged settings are not guaranteed. Your IT team should check the intended firmware and security configuration afterwards. The service request form asks for the necessary consent.

Send only information needed for the order

Provide the model, MTM, serial number, lock type, condition and quantity. Include known damage and previous repair attempts. A photo of the message helps us identify the issue. Check it for personal or internal information first.

Please do not send passwords, recovery keys, user files or unnecessary inventory data. For batches, use an agreed device list containing the required device details. Our privacy notice explains processing of contact and order data. Removing the SSD limits the data sent with the device; it is not a blanket privacy or security guarantee.

Checklist before shipping

1. Obtain order and price confirmation. Private customers wait for confirmation of payment; businesses for the agreed shipping authorisation.
2. Check startup and condition. Document the casing, display, ports and known damage, using photos where helpful. For batches, clearly identify which device each reported fault belongs to.
3. Keep backups and required keys with you; remove the SSD where possible.
4. Cushion notebooks securely. Pack detached boards with ESD protection and adequate padding. Follow your carrier’s packaging and shipping requirements.
5. Include the request reference for online requests or the completed, signed form for the PDF process.
6. Include a prepaid return label and check both shipping addresses.

You arrange and pay for outbound and return shipping. Discuss carriers other than DHL or Hermes beforehand. For international shipping we agree the paperwork together; shipping, battery and import requirements depend on the country and carrier. Shipping authorisation is not a general assurance that a damaged battery can be transported. Disclose known battery damage beforehand and clarify it with the carrier.

After return

Check the device and agreed result. Restore the required UEFI / BIOS settings and put the device back into use under your IT policy. Removing SVP or CBA does not replace a complete refurbishment inspection, data erasure or removal from device management.

Find more information in the storage FAQ and service process. Use the service request to prepare your order.

Technical sources

• Microsoft: BitLocker overview – Encryption and recovery following changes.
• Lenovo: model-specific manuals and support – Your model's manual governs SSD removal.

The shipping and processing information follows our service process and the notes in the service request. We confirm individual arrangements before shipping.